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Bear Creek School Launches “Beary Pawsome” Program to Recognize Student Leadership

Bear Creek School has launched an exciting new initiative, “Beary Pawsome,” designed to celebrate students who exhibit one of the seven habits from the Leader in Me program. This initiative rewards positive behavior and strengthens the school’s commitment to fostering Community Connections, a core pillar of the District that emphasizes parents as partners in their child’s education.

The seven habits students are encouraged to demonstrate include:

  1. Be Proactive – Take responsibility for actions and choices.
  2. Begin with the End in Mind – Set goals and make a plan to achieve them.
  3. Put First Things First – Prioritize important tasks and manage time wisely.
  4. Think Win-Win – Work collaboratively to find solutions that benefit everyone.
  5. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood – Listen actively before responding.
  6. Synergize – Work together effectively as a team.
  7. Sharpen the Saw – Balance learning, health, and well-being for continuous growth.

When a faculty or support staff member observes a student demonstrating one of these habits, they immediately recognize the student on the spot by presenting a Beary Pawsome certificate and explaining why they are being honored. To further reinforce the achievement, school administration calls the student’s family to share the great news, ensuring that parents are aware of the positive impact their child is making in school. Teachers are also encouraged to connect with families to celebrate the student’s leadership and growth.

Since the launch of the program, nearly 200 Beary Pawsome awards have been given to students. The idea for this initiative came from Mike Pericci, assistant principal at Bear Creek School, as a way to recognize and reinforce leadership skills, positive behavior, and a culture of belonging. Students have been recognized for helping their peers and teachers, showing improvement in their classwork, turning in money they found, etc.

The Beary Pawsome program is making a positive impact by reinforcing the Leader in Me principles and encouraging a school culture rooted in recognition, leadership, and partnership with families.

“Essentially, we’re working to increase positive communication with parents and guardians, ensuring they hear from the school for more than just concerns,” said Pericci. “We want students to feel recognized and valued for the many ways they are standing out in positive ways.”

Beary Pawsome Award Winners with Bear Creek School Administration